Ilesh Shantilal

Born on November 23, 1961, in the picturesque landscapes of Portugal, Ilesh Shantilal might not have hailed from a traditional cricketing hotspot, yet his journey through the world of cricket is nothing short of remarkable. From the cobbled streets of his home town, where he first picked up a cricket ball, to international cricket venues, Ilesh’s path was paved with dedication and an undeniable passion for the sport.

Ilesh’s early cricketing years were shaped in local leagues in Portugal, a country where football reigned supreme. He honed his skills against limited competition, which only fuelled his determination. Recognising his burgeoning talent, a local coach encouraged a teenage Ilesh to take his game to England, where cricket's heartbeat resonated more vibrantly. It was here, amid cloudy British summers, that he truly flourished. His professional debut came in the early 1980s, embroiled in the county circuit where he quickly made a name for himself as an indefatigable bowler.

With a bowling action that combined precision with an uncanny ability to adapt to differing conditions, Ilesh became a master of versatility. His adaptable batting approach, although often overshadowed by his bowling prowess, could swing the momentum in nail-biting contests. His journey through cricket is peppered with significant landmarks, not least his role in his county’s championship wins, where his clutch performances with the ball orchestrated many a memorable victory.

Ilesh's career was storied with iconic matches and fervent rivalries. Yet, it was perhaps his unwavering duel with the star batsmen of his era that etched his name into cricketing folklore. Never one to back down from a challenge, he regularly found ways to get under the skin of opponents, his cerebral approach constantly outsmarting the brightest talents of the time.

Over the years, Shantilal's resilience and charisma left an indelible mark on the cricketing fraternity, inspiring a generation of cricketers from non-traditional cricketing nations to pursue their dreams. Whether it was a late afternoon spell that swung the course of a match or a vital lower-order innings that buoyed his team, Ilesh Shantilal's influence on the game proved significant. In many ways, his career remains a testament to the power of perseverance and passion in sport.

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats